Matthew Whitaker, agriculture teacher at Rockcastle County High School, was awarded the Honorary State FFA Degree during the 97th Kentucky State FFA Convention in Lexington.

The Honorary State Degree is presented to individuals who have made significant contributions to Kentucky FFA and agricultural education. Past recipients have included governors, agricultural leaders, educators, and longtime supporters of the organization.

Whitaker was recognized for his leadership and service to agricultural education, including his role as President of the Kentucky Association of Agricultural Educators. In that position, he provided leadership to more than 300 agriculture teachers across the Commonwealth and helped shape the future of agricultural education and FFA programs in Kentucky.

As a teacher at Rockcastle County High School, Whitaker is dedicated to helping students develop leadership skills, explore career opportunities, and grow through agricultural education.

Kentucky FFA serves more than 25,000 students across 195 chapters statewide, with a mission of developing premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.

Rockcastle County Schools congratulates Mr. Whitaker on this well-deserved recognition and thanks him for his continued commitment to students and agricultural education.